In Celebration of Marzie

To family, friends and all who have known and loved Marzie (a.k.a. ‘Girlie’):

It is with a heavy and yet joyful heart that I share this news. On Thursday evening (March 25th) Marzie died suddenly and peacefully after a fulfilling and happy life. About six months ago she was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer. Although she was given a I month maximum time-line, Marzie and Shirley Lynn decided that they were going to live life their way with whatever time she had left. She retired from Feathers, Rainbows & Roses and had an amazing miracle-filled six months, defying the statistics – just like Marzie.

Characteristically, in her retirement, Marzie chose to embrace life every day, continued to share this enthusiasm with all who met her. She loved her many friends – people, dogs (especially her beloved soul friend Chelsea and Roxie), cats, and even a rabbit or two. She joyfully worked as Lucy’s assistant (her most loved and dog-incredible aunt) in helping other dogs learn balanced pack behaviour and the way of bonding with their people in healthy relationships. She loved helping other dogs remember what it was to live completely as a dog and as a spiritual being.

She eagerly looked forward to every meal – the home-cooked scrump-dilli-icious food Shirley lovingly cooked for her, but also the ever-popular liver brownies that Lucy makes (thanks Lydia for the liver supply). She always loved going for walks every day, her hunting and digging adventures (and even misadventures), truck rides to anywhere or nowhere in particular, her pink reiki quilt (thanks Cindy), her squeaky toys, and a really good sunbeam. Marzie deeply loved her family, but Shirley above all else, and was a most loyal partner and deep companion to her.

Her talents and gifts were many (she even had her own newsletter to children!!), and she shared them freely with everyone she met. She shared her toys, her bed, her home, her family and friends, her joyous and playful spirit, her unconditional support, encouragement and forgiveness, her soulful eyes, her kind and gentle heart, her sense of humour, and so much more. Even the neighbourhood crows who swore (grin) at her regularly will miss her ‘coyote teasing’ (as well as humans and her dog friends).

For those of you with whom she traveled more deeply over the years, I know you will remember her love and simple and yet pointed honesty with you. She showed you when to play and lighten up. She showed you when to open up and trust and she reminded us to stay in our bodies and exercise, stretch and even when to take a break because it was meal time (especially at workshops and reiki trainings). In her final moments, Lucy was taking her to the vet and she died on the way. Divine synchronicity had it that she died in the area of Bloomingdale. Even in her final moments, she shared her last breath and love with all the clients she met.

Thanks to each one of you who gave Marzie the opportunity to join you on your own life journey, who shared your own special gifts with her, especially of the thoughtful gifts and COOKIES she loved so much!!!. And a very special thanks to all those who have supported Marzie’s health throughout the past 6 months. Shirley Lynn welcomes your stories and memories about Marzie, and is truly grateful for your love and support through this difficult transition.

Marzie, you were a special dog, friend, leader and healer to so many. You embodied and embraced life, love and joy, and you taught us all so much. Even in your transition, your spirit runs with great freedom, glee and abundant gratitude. We still feel your presence with great vitality. Thank you for sharing part of your journey with us and blessing us with your beautiful and loving presence. We will always love you deeply and will remember you with great joy and fondness. We’ll be seein’ you!!

Marzipan
(December 6, 1999 – March 25, 2010)

With love,
Shirley Lynn Martin and Lucy Martin

And from…….
Feathers, Rainbows & Roses


with blessing and prayers for
Grace bestowed


we remember and release

Marzie

She whom we love
and lose
is no longer
where she was before.
She is now
wherever we are.

©St. John Chrysotom

©Shirley Lynn Martin, April 2010.